Connor Bedard, the most anticipated NHL prospect since Connor McDavid, is already making waves with the Chicago Blackhawks in his rookie season. Dubbed a generational talent, Bedard’s elite scoring ability and on-ice vision have injected new hope into a franchise desperate to rebuild. Yet, amid the excitement, there are whispers of caution: experts and insiders are warning Bedard against rushing to sign a long-term extension with the struggling Blackhawks.
The Allure of Early Security
From a financial standpoint, it makes sense for the Blackhawks to lock up their franchise centerpiece as soon as possible. A long-term extension would not only secure Bedard’s services well into his prime but also provide stability during the team’s rebuild. The NHL’s entry-level contracts are limited in duration and salary, typically lasting three years. As soon as Bedard’s rookie deal nears its expiration, the Blackhawks will undoubtedly look to sign him to an extension, likely in the neighborhood of eight years with a hefty price tag.
For Bedard, an early extension could provide financial security and a sense of commitment from the organization. However, there are significant reasons to approach such a decision with caution.
The State of the Rebuild
The most pressing issue is the state of the Blackhawks themselves. Once a powerhouse that claimed three Stanley Cups in six years (2010, 2013, 2015), the franchise has since fallen into disarray. Poor roster management, controversial off-ice issues, and a lack of top-tier talent have plunged Chicago into the depths of the NHL standings. The departure of cornerstone players like Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane signaled the official end of an era, leaving Bedard to shoulder the weight of revitalizing the team.
Rebuilding in the NHL can take years, and even the most promising prospects can struggle when surrounded by subpar teammates. While Bedard’s skill set is undeniably elite, his ability to single-handedly carry a team remains unproven. Committing long-term to a franchise stuck in perpetual rebuild mode could hinder his growth and waste his prime years.
Lessons from the Past: McDavid and Eichel
Looking at recent history, two examples stand out: Connor McDavid with the Edmonton Oilers and Jack Eichel with the Buffalo Sabres. McDavid, after being drafted first overall in 2015, quickly established himself as the best player in the world. Despite his individual brilliance, the Oilers struggled for years to build a competent roster around him. While Edmonton eventually turned a corner, McDavid’s prime was partially wasted on a team that couldn’t find consistency.
Eichel’s story is more cautionary. Drafted second overall in 2015, Eichel signed a long-term extension with the Sabres but was ultimately bogged down by a dysfunctional organization and lack of playoff appearances. His frustration grew to the point of demanding a trade, and he was eventually moved to the Vegas Golden Knights. The lesson? Even generational talents can suffer when stuck with an incompetent front office.
If Bedard signs early, he risks being tied to a franchise that may not have its house in order. Chicago’s front office must prove its ability to surround him with the necessary talent and support to compete at the highest level.
The Pressure of Being “The Guy”
Chicago fans have been starving for a new hero since the departures of Kane and Toews. Bedard has been thrust into that role almost instantly, carrying the weight of a storied franchise on his young shoulders. While he has the potential to meet those expectations, the burden can be overwhelming—especially if the team’s struggles persist.
Signing a long-term deal could mean being trapped in a situation where success is years away. Should the Blackhawks continue to falter, Bedard could face a scenario similar to McDavid’s early years—consistently dominant as an individual but failing to see postseason success.
Waiting for Proof of Commitment
Bedard’s camp would be wise to wait and see how the Blackhawks handle the next few seasons. Are they committed to building around him effectively? Will management make the necessary moves to improve the roster, or will they continue to wallow in mediocrity?
Bedard could adopt a strategy similar to Auston Matthews, who signed shorter extensions to maintain flexibility and ensure the Maple Leafs were making competitive moves. By doing so, Bedard would maintain leverage and give himself an exit strategy should Chicago’s rebuild go sideways.
Navigating the Market
The NHL’s salary cap is expected to rise significantly in the coming years, meaning Bedard could command a much larger contract if he waits. If he continues to perform at an elite level, holding off on an extension could yield a record-breaking payday.
Additionally, players with Bedard’s potential often see their value soar as they establish themselves in the league. An early extension could lock him into a deal that eventually looks like a bargain compared to future market rates. Waiting also allows Bedard to assess which teams are making strides toward competitiveness—should he decide to seek opportunities elsewhere.
The Team Perspective
While it might seem logical for Chicago to secure Bedard long-term, they too must be cautious. Committing significant cap space to a single player during a rebuild can hamper flexibility. If the Blackhawks tie up too much money too soon, it could limit their ability to attract complementary talent through trades or free agency.
A balanced approach would be for the Blackhawks to focus on proving their commitment to building a contender before pushing for a massive extension. Bringing in high-caliber players, developing prospects, and showing progress in the standings will go a long way in convincing Bedard that Chicago is the right place for his future.
Bedard’s Best Move
For now, Bedard should focus on developing his game and acclimating to the NHL pace without feeling pressured into long-term decisions. An early extension could backfire if Chicago’s rebuild drags on, leaving him stuck in a losing environment.
The ideal move might be to take a “wait and see” approach, perhaps even signing a bridge deal after his entry-level contract expires. This would give Bedard financial security while still allowing him the flexibility to reassess his options as his career progresses.
The Bottom Line
Connor Bedard is the type of talent that can transform a franchise, but he must carefully navigate his future to avoid being shackled to a struggling team. Chicago’s management faces the monumental task of proving they are capable of rebuilding around their young superstar. Bedard should take note of past cautionary tales and resist the urge to rush into a long-term extension, opting instead for a measured approach that prioritizes his career trajectory.
As the Blackhawks continue to navigate turbulent waters, Bedard’s choices will shape both his legacy and the future of the franchise. It is crucial for the young phenom to ensure that his commitment to Chicago aligns with the team’s ability to build a sustainable, competitive roster. For now, patience might be his best ally.
